Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the pleura, a thin membrane that lines the lungs and chest cavity. The pleura has two layers – the visceral pleura that covers the lungs and the parietal pleura that lines the chest wall. Pleurisy occurs when these layers become inflamed, causing sharp chest pain when breathing in or coughing.

What Causes Pleurisy?

There are several potential causes of pleurisy, including:

  • Viral infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis
  • Bacterial infections, including tuberculosis
  • Lung infections, such as lung abscess or empyema
  • Autoimmune diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
  • Chest injuries
  • Pulmonary embolism

What Are the Symptoms of Pleurisy?

The most common symptom of pleurisy is sharp chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing. Other symptoms may include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Dry cough
  • Fever
  • Rapid shallow breathing
  • Unexplained weight loss

How is Pleurisy Diagnosed?

To diagnose pleurisy, your doctor will likely perform a physical examination, listen to your lungs with a stethoscope, and ask about your symptoms and medical history. Diagnostic tests that may be ordered include:

  • Chest X-ray or CT scan
  • Blood tests to check for infection or inflammation
  • Thoracentesis, a procedure to collect a sample of pleural fluid for analysis

How is Pleurisy Treated?

Treatment for pleurisy aims to relieve symptoms and treat the underlying cause. It may include:

  • Prescription pain medication to alleviate chest pain
  • Antibiotics for bacterial infections
  • Antiviral medication for viral infections
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation
  • Corticosteroids to suppress immune system activity in autoimmune diseases
  • Draining excess fluid from the pleural cavity if necessary

When Should I Seek Medical Attention?

If you experience sudden, severe chest pain or have difficulty breathing, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of pleurisy can help prevent complications and promote recovery.

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of any health condition.

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